If you’re just starting out with affiliate marketing, picking the right program can feel a bit confusing, right? I totally get it. Over the years, I’ve helped a lot of beginners—clients, friends, and even family—find great affiliate programs that are easy to join, pay well, and actually work.
In this guide, I’ll share what I’ve learned to help you get off to a solid start.
1. Why Picking the Right Affiliate Program Matters
A lot of newbies just join the first program they see—but not all affiliate programs are beginner-friendly. Some are hard to get into, pay very little, or have weird rules.
From my experience, the best beginner-friendly programs have a few things in common:
✅ Easy to join – No crazy approval process
✅ Helpful tools – Like training, banners, and promo tips
✅ Trusted brands – Products people already love
✅ On-time payments – No hidden tricks or delays
Let’s check out my top picks 👇
2. Amazon Associates – Great for Trying Things Out
Amazon Associates is where many beginners start. It’s super easy to use, and you can promote pretty much anything.
Why it’s good:
✔ No hard signup process
✔ Millions of products to choose from
✔ Everyone shops on Amazon, so conversions are easier
What’s not so great:
✘ Low commission rates (1–4%)
✘ Short 24-hour cookie – you only earn if they buy fast
Best for: Trying affiliate marketing for the first time.
3. ShareASale – Trusted & Lots of Options
I recommend ShareASale a lot. It’s got tons of merchants in different niches—great for testing out what works for you.
Why it’s good:
✔ Easy dashboard
✔ Lots of categories: fashion, tech, home stuff, and more
✔ Weekly payouts (yay, fast cash!)
What’s not so great:
✘ Some merchants have strict rules
✘ Not all offers pay a lot
Best for: Beginners who want variety.
4. Bluehost Affiliate Program – Big Payouts in Tech
If you’re into blogging or websites, Bluehost is a goldmine. I’ve seen beginners do really well here.
Why it’s good:
✔ Big payouts ($65+ per sale)
✔ You keep earning if they renew
✔ Great for bloggers/web creators
What’s not so great:
✘ Only works if your audience needs hosting
✘ You need to know a bit about websites
Best for: Bloggers or content creators who talk tech or websites.
5. CJ Affiliate (Commission Junction) – Big Brands, Trusted Network
CJ is one of the oldest affiliate platforms out there. It’s great if you want to promote well-known brands.
Why it’s good:
✔ Big names like Lowe’s, Priceline, and Overstock
✔ Reliable tracking and tools
✔ Different ways to promote (banners, deep links, etc.)
What’s not so great:
✘ Some programs require approval
✘ Dashboard might feel a bit overwhelming at first
Best for: Beginners willing to learn the ropes to promote big names.
6. Rakuten Advertising – Global & Well-Known Retailers
Rakuten (used to be LinkShare) is another great choice. A friend of mine built their whole business here!
Why it’s good:
✔ Big brands like Walmart, Macy’s, Best Buy
✔ Works in different countries
✔ Good support system
What’s not so great:
✘ You might need approval for some brands
✘ Payouts and commissions vary a lot
Best for: Beginners looking to go international or promote retail stuff.
7. ClickBank – Great for Digital Products & High Commissions
ClickBank is awesome if you want to promote eBooks, courses, or software.
Why it’s good:
✔ High commissions (up to 75%)
✔ Instant approval
✔ Some products offer recurring income
What’s not so great:
✘ Some products aren’t the best quality – check before promoting
✘ Refunds can be high
Best for: Promoting online courses, eBooks, and digital tools.
8. Shopify Affiliate Program – Earn by Referring New Stores
If your audience is into starting businesses, Shopify is worth looking into.
Why it’s good:
✔ Big payouts ($150+ per sale)
✔ Recurring earnings
✔ Lots of people want to start online stores
What’s not so great:
✘ Not for everyone – only works if your audience is into e-commerce
✘ You’ll need a bit of sales skill to convince people
Best for: Beginners with a business-minded or entrepreneurial audience.
9. Quick Tips for Getting Started 💡
Here’s what I’ve seen work for new affiliates:
✔ Stick to evergreen topics (health, finance, tech)
✔ Start with just 1–2 programs
✔ Track your links (use free tools like Bitly)
✔ Be patient – real money takes time
Final Thoughts ✨
If you’re new, start with something easy like Amazon, ShareASale, or ClickBank. Once you’re more confident, check out higher-paying options like Shopify or Bluehost.
I’ve seen many people go from total beginner to earning a full-time income—just by staying consistent and learning as they go.
So… which affiliate program are you thinking of trying first? 😄
Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to help you out!
